Ball Corp posts Q2 earnings beat, cites strong beverage‑can demand

Ball Corp reported second‑quarter 2024 revenue of $4 billion, surpassing analysts' $3.71 billion estimate, and adjusted earnings of $1.03 per share, beating the $0.98 consensus. Global aluminium packaging shipments rose 4.3% year‑over‑year, driven by higher beverage‑can volumes, especially in North and Central America where sales reached $2 billion. The company generated free cash flow above $900 million and announced approximately $800 million in shareholder returns, including $600 million in share repurchases and $200 million in dividends. CEO Ron Lewis reaffirmed the 2026 outlook of more than 10% comparable diluted EPS growth and projected global volume growth of about 3% for that year. CFO Dan Rabbitt noted higher costs, including $5 million in startup expenses, partially offset by favorable price mix. Ball highlighted sustainability trends and the impact of recent U.S. aluminium tariffs, while maintaining confidence in its long‑term financial framework.